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French lawmakers condemned the 1961 police crackdown on Algerian protesters in Paris as a “bloody and murderous repression,” acknowledging the massacre that authorities had sought to cover up for decades. The National Assembly passed a resolution condemning the police brutality and called for the establishment of a national day of remembrance. President Emmanuel Macron had previously acknowledged the events of October 17, 1961, when about 12,000 Algerians were arrested and dozens were killed, with their bodies being thrown into the Seine River. Historians believe at least 120 protesters died, some shot and some drowned.

The protesters in 1961 had responded to a peaceful demonstration organized by the French branch of the National Liberation Front, known as FLN, which was fighting for Algerian independence. The demonstration was in response to a discriminatory nighttime curfew targeting Algerians in the Paris region. The events of 1961 highlighted the tensions between France and Algeria, with Algeria having been under French rule for 132 years until gaining independence in 1962. The acknowledgment of the massacre by French lawmakers is seen as an important step in recognizing the historical injustices faced by Algerians during this time.

President Macron’s recognition of the massacre on its 60th anniversary in 2021 was a significant moment in acknowledging the violence that occurred in 1961. The resolution passed by the National Assembly further solidifies France’s commitment to acknowledging and remembering the events of that day. The establishment of a national day of remembrance would serve as a way to honor the victims of the massacre and ensure that the events of October 17, 1961, are not forgotten. By condemning the police brutality and recognizing the injustice faced by Algerians, French lawmakers are taking a step towards reconciliation and understanding the country’s complicated history with Algeria.

The passage of the resolution reflects a broader shift in French society towards acknowledging the colonial past and the injustices that were committed during that time. The events of 1961 were a stark reminder of the violence and discrimination faced by Algerians living in France during the fight for independence. The resolution passed by the National Assembly is a sign of progress in addressing these historical injustices and working towards a more inclusive and equitable society. By condemning the actions of the past and recognizing the trauma inflicted on Algerians, France is taking steps towards healing and reconciliation.

The acknowledgment of the 1961 massacre is part of a larger conversation about France’s colonial past and its impact on the country’s relationship with its former colonies. The resolution passed by the National Assembly is a way to confront the difficult truths of history and work towards a more truthful and inclusive understanding of the past. By recognizing the violence and discrimination faced by Algerians in France, French lawmakers are demonstrating a commitment to addressing the legacy of colonialism and working towards a more just and equitable future. The establishment of a national day of remembrance would be a way to ensure that the events of October 17, 1961, are not forgotten and that the victims are honored and remembered for their sacrifice.

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